Creative Arts Therapist For Children and Young People in Chiswick, London
Supporting Schools
Why have a Play Therapist in your school?
Many schools are facing a rise in mental health challenges among their students. Combined with the constant pressures on staff from curriculum demands and data requirements, supporting these children can feel overwhelming. As a play therapist, I can provide targeted interventions and general advice to help alleviate this burden. My services can enhance existing support systems within the school and act as a bridge between school-based interventions and CAHMS.
Having a play therapist accredited by an organisation recognised by the Professional Standards Authority offers schools reassurance that the guidance and support they receive come from a highly trained and qualified professional. I adhere to strict standards and an ethical code, ensuring that the work conducted is both safe and effective.
Play therapy offers children a secure psychological space where they can express themselves without fear of judgement. Through this process, they receive the emotional support needed to gain insight into their behaviours, feelings, and relationships. The use of toys in therapy creates emotional distance, allowing children to explore their difficulties in a safe manner, ultimately leading to emotional healing.
The benefits of play therapy for children include increased self-confidence, improved self-esteem, reduced fear and anxiety, enhanced peer relationships, better behaviour, greater engagement in learning, reduced aggression, a calmer and happier sense of wellbeing, and improved relationships both at school and at home.
I can collaborate with schools to promote positive mental health in several ways:
- 1-1 play therapy sessions for children and young people
- Group play therapy
- Training for staff
One-to-One Therapy
I offer play therapy and creative counselling for children and adolescents who are facing emotional challenges and need a secure environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to help children find their way to a happier, more resilient self, enabling them to develop the inner strength needed to reach their full potential.
Sessions are held weekly, lasting 40 minutes each, for a minimum of 12 weeks, depending on the child's needs. While the content of the sessions remains confidential, I can provide guidance to teachers and parents on helpful strategies if needed. I adhere strictly to the school's safeguarding procedures.
Group Therapy
Group play therapy is designed for 3-5 children who are dealing with similar low-risk issues, such as difficulties with friendships, low self-esteem, or anxiety. Working in a group setting allows children to learn from one another and can significantly enhance their emotional wellbeing.
The sessions are structured yet flexible, allowing for self-direction. As in individual play therapy, the therapist creates a safe space for children to express themselves and provides sensitive, positive support that nurtures the group dynamics.
The group engages in various therapeutic games and creative activities, working towards shared objectives. The therapist guides these activities, considering both individual and group input, gently leading the children through their experiences and interactions to foster better self-understanding and mutual respect.
Sessions last for 50 minutes each week, over 6-8 weeks. Each group receives a customised support package, which includes consultations with teachers and parents at the beginning and end of the therapy.
What would a Play Therapy service include?
Play therapy requires regular weekly sessions. I offer:
- Half-day sessions (2-3 children) or full-day sessions (4-5 children).
- All play therapy materials and equipment, though some storage space will be needed.
- Referrals and assessments.
- Pre-session planning and post-session analysis.
- Review meetings every 6-8 weeks.
- Telephone support and consultation for parents and carers.
- Collaboration with teachers and SENCo.
- A written report at the end of therapy, which can support EHCP reviews and applications if needed.
- Advice and strategies to support the child both at home and in school.
Please contact me to discuss pricing or any questions you may have. I am flexible and aim to provide a service that best fits the school's needs while ensuring ethical practice for the children.
Working With Staff
When working with children in a school setting, I recognise the importance of building strong relationships with the staff as well. I offer support and share my knowledge in various ways-whether through informal catchups with teachers and SENCos or through structured staff training sessions.